A lot of Highland Park around these days, because that what the Probably Orkney’s Finest from Douglas Laing is. Unless you’re of the opinion that Scapa is actually Orkney’s finest distillery, but than you’d be part of a stark minority. No, this Douglas Laing release is a Highland Park, one of many such we’ve seen in the last 18 months or so.
I’ve never really fancied Highland Park, except for the excellent Highland Park 25 Years Old. And this one from Gordon & MacPhail. And I actually thought the Fire was pretty good. Okay, I should fact check myself before I say stupid stuff. What I mean is, I’m not really a fan of the distillery, even though their whisky can be pretty good. There’s never been that connection. I’ve visited the distillery even, and yet, nothing… I guess I’m just not enough of a viking.
Probably Orkney’s Finest 16 Years Old (48.4%, Douglas Laing, C#13371)
Nose: Sweet notes of honey, a touch of citrus, wet pebbles and subtle notes of vanilla as well. A whisper of peat smoke in the background. Not super complex, but the balance makes up for it.
Taste: Soft aromas of straw, hay, ripe apple and lemon-y peat smoke, as well as caramel. It does have a nice salinity too, accompanied by nutmeg and cloves.
Finish: Lingering spices. Medium in length.
Score: 87
Nice Highland Park from Douglas Laing, hitting all the marks that you would hope for. Actually good value for money too.
Photo: The Whisky Exchange
